Engine temperature

[ChameleonGreen]

Just as a best guess, what would some of you say is the hottest the 3.8 engine can safely run at? Think the 3/4 mark is safe for short periods? Strange how the red zone is so small and there is no yellow warning zone.

Also, anyone ever experience a coolant leak from ABOVE the water pump? There is a small crevise above the highest point of the water pump that goes back about 2 inches. I am leaking coolant either directly from that spot, or whatever is above that spot but under the intake manifold. If I get my head real low, I can see the bottom of a metal tube under there, but I have no idea what runs through it. The tube seems to go from behind where the tension pulley connects to the block on one end, and then seems to make a 90 degree turn straight back into the engine block. Anyone know what that is?

[Dominic]

The high temp fans are supposed to kick on at 230, I really wouldn't like it to go past 220 on the hottest of days - and I think it should run no hotter than 190 when cruising.

Stock you should never see the temp needle go past the 210 mark... (which on my car looks the same whether its 190 or 230degrees!)

Plop a 180 or 160 stat in it and flush your coolant. Run a solid 50/50 mix this time of year. Why do you think your car is running so hot? Let it run too hot too long and you'll blow a headgasket.